OweynagatCave, often described as the “gateway to hell” in Irish mythology, is located near Rathcroghan in County Roscommon, Ireland. Part of a complex of archaeological sites associated with the ancient kingdom of Connacht, it attracts visitors with a passion for history, legend and myth every year. The place is shrouded in mystery! Nicknamed the “caves of hell”, or “grotte de l’enfer”, the site is said to be the origin of the Samain festival and many local beliefs and traditions.
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Oweynagat Cave is a natural fissure in the earth, formed over thousands of years. It’s the result of millions of years of erosion and water infiltration, carving out deep, dark galleries.
However, the presence of an underground passageway built after the 9th century at the entrance indicates human modifications: we still don’t know what this passageway was used for, but it was probably used for protection or to shelter precious objects in the event of an attack.
The proximity of a Druidic school and evidence of Neolithic huts and burials suggest that the cave has been known since antiquity. In fact, it is said to have nourished countless pagan beliefs, and contributed to the birth of the Samain festival.
Oweynagat Cave may not look like much at first glance. But it remains the cradle of beliefs that originated in the Celtic period and then spread throughout Ireland.
For this cave has long been considered the gateway to the Other World, populated by the Tuatha Dé Danann, Celtic deities and wandering spirits. For the people of the time, it was a certainty: this cave was the very lair of hell, home to demonic creatures and figures capable of plunging mankind into an abyss of darkness!
Particularly feared, the area was carefully avoided, and domestic animals were regularly sacrificed to appease the evil spirits!
In fact, it was here, in Oweynagat cave, that one of Ireland’s most deeply-rooted beliefs originated: that of Samain, a pagan festival that has now given rise to Halloween!
Thus, the Gaels were convinced that the cave was home to numerous demons and other evil creatures… and that these were able to enter the World of the Living for one night (November 1).
Disguised as humanoid figures, the creatures were capable of murdering the living, casting spells and other curses.
It was also traditional for Celts to disguise themselves as demons on this night, the better to fool the enemy and go unnoticed! The Samain festival was born!
It was celebrated at Rathcroghan, an ancient royal stronghold in Ireland. Many ceremonies were performed in reference to the Oweynagat cave.
There are many stories revolving around this local site. Between myths and supernatural testimonies, there’s something for everyone!
Starting with the legend of Nera. It tells the story of a Celtic warrior who witnessed a strange apparition in the cave. As he approached, he saw a terrifying ghostly army of evil soldiers. Fascinated by this apparition, he approached it and was captured in the Other World… Since then, no one has ever seen him again…
But that’s not all!
Legends aside, Irish mythology explains that Morrigan, goddess of war, is said to live here within Oweynagat Cave, reinforcing the cave’s connection with war and ravens, birds often found on battlefields.
Finally, the very name Oweynagat, meaning “Cave of the Cats”, and other mythical tales, such as that of the three-headed creatures and saffron birds emerging from the cave, fuel its image as a mysterious and powerful place in the popular imagination.
Today, access to the cave is via a local road.
However, as it is on private property, it is advisable to contact the Rathcroghan Visitor Center to arrange a visit. It’s important to know that guided tours of Rathcroghan often include Oweynagat, offering visitors an insight into pre-Christian history and Irish folklore.
If you’re not afraid to enter, and you’re not the type to be afraid of demons, the entrance to the grotto is through a small door. It’s advisable to wear old clothes and bring a flashlight, as the interior of the cave is naturally dark.
Inside, there’s an oghamic stone bearing the inscription “Fraic fils de Medb”, which could refer to Queen Medb or a tribe dedicated to her.
Archaeologically, the cave features ancient rock engravings, adding to its mystery and cultural significance.
Inside, the atmosphere is unique, special and full of mystery. A must-see for lovers of caving and ancient history!
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